There was a heavy security presence at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja on Thursday following the commission’s decision to de-list the National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress from its official portal.
The development came amid plans by supporters of the party and allied groups to stage a protest at the commission’s headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
According to Daily Post, witnesses said the road leading to the INEC headquarters was blocked with security vehicles on Thursday morning.
A large number of security operatives, including personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, were also deployed around the commission’s premises.
The security buildup followed reports that some Nigerians, including members of the ADC, the Obidient Movement, and other groups, planned a protest tagged ‘Occupy INEC.’
Reports indicated that more than 2,000 protesters had gathered around the commission’s headquarters on Wednesday shortly after INEC announced its decision regarding the ADC leadership dispute.
The development sparked outrage among some party supporters and political groups.
INEC had on Wednesday removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from its official portal as National Chairman and National Secretary of the ADC, respectively.
The electoral body also stated that it would not recognise Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking to be declared national chairman through the courts.
According to INEC, recognition of all factions within the party has been suspended pending the resolution of the legal dispute.
The commission said it would also refrain from monitoring any conventions or congresses organised by groups aligned with the affected leaders.
INEC added that the decision would remain in effect until the final determination of the substantive suit before the Federal High Court.
